Logbook Requirements

You will keep a logbook of all the work you have done for your project in detail. The entire logbook should be available either digitally (online) or physically (binder) at the fair. However, you will upload a maximum of 5 pages as an example when you register that must include the complete details of your materials, methods, and observations in pdf format. (see Logbook Musts) This will be sent in advance to the judges. Put your name and the name of your project on each page. Scan it if in a binder or save it as a pdf file if it is digital. Upload it where required on the virtual website. This must be uploaded by March 22.

What is a logbook?

The logbook is your record or journal of progress. It can be digital or written in a binder.
Date and number each page or entry.
Remember to record all websites, references and people that you spoke with for your bibliography.
Use the information in your logbook to write your final submission. Include pictures and sketches that you can use for your virtual display.

What to include in your logbook

Include brainstorming notes and background research together with reference information (where you got your information). Who or what inspired your idea.

If this is an experiment, what is your hypothesis, what are your controls and variables (dependent and independent). If it is an innovation, what problem with a current device or process are you trying to fix? If a new device or process, what is the situation you are trying to improve?

When are you going to do it? What methods might you use? Where will you get the materials? What are the safety or ethics issues you need to be aware of? What are the barriers? Who could help you if needed?

These must be uploaded to support the results and conclusions that you put in your online project. For details see Logbook Musts: Materials Methods and Observations.

Write down what you found out. What conclusions you can make? What conclusions can you not make? What further experiments do you have to do? What works, what didn’t work? Is there anything in the results you did not anticipate? What new hypothesis or idea does this lead you to? …and this may lead you back to the beginning as all good science does!

List of acknowledgements: Once you have finished, make a list of everyone who has helped you along the way. What were their contributions and how will you thank them? Prepare your bibliography – your list of all websites, books, people who gave you ideas, methods and information.

Plan your exhibit: What are the key points? Summarize what you did and what you found out. Choose the best pictures to illustrate each required item. Prepare any graphs and charts that would be useful.

Prepare your interview with some “pretend” judges and practice.

Reflect on your project – What are your proud of, What needed to be improved? Why is it important? What could it lead to?

What did you learn in general from doing the project – was it fun? Did you come up with possibilities for the future? Make a final page of what went well and what you would do differently in future fairs.